James grew up in Franklin Square, New York; a small town just outside of New York City. James always felt fortunate to have a tight knit family providing him with support and encouragement. Much of James’ extended family lived on the same street a mere six houses apart. His father, John, is a police detective, his mother, Lora, is a homemaker and his sister Paige has always been his best friend. His family always believed in his dreams - no matter how big - even when the avid eight-year-old college football fan told them his dream was to win the Heisman Trophy. That particular dream never did come true, but James did play college football at Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York.
It wasn’t long after he met his wife, Heather, that James decided to trade the bright lights surrounding New York City for new experiences in Halfmoon, where James and Heather currently live with their energetic dog, King. Since the move upstate, James has taken a greater interest in the outdoors, exploring the best Upstate New York has to offer in kayaking trips, hiking adventures and fishing. Sadly, the convenient train ride on the Long Island Railroad to see the Rangers take the ice at Madison Square Garden is no longer an option, but that does not stop James from cheering on the Broadway Blueshirts from afar. And yes, he did name his dog, King, after Ranger’s great, Henrik Lundqvist.
James’ passion for welcoming challenges and setting big goals stretches beyond his hobbies and personal life. As James left the hills of Hartwick College in Oneonta and, with enthusiasm and drive, stepped back into the classroom at Hofstra Law School, he set out on a journey to achieve one important goal he set for himself. James vowed to take the knowledge he would gain with his education to provide a helping hand to those who may not be in a position to help themselves. He has a strong belief in the importance of using the skills one obtains to provide assistance to others.
At Lavelle & Finn, James has been able to work toward that goal one day at a time. His combination of compassion and determination help ensure that the clients we serve receive the highest level of expertise in all of our practice areas. With each client he meets, James immerses himself in the engagement. The journey begins with the initial client meeting and James’ participation as an attentive listener. The topics of planning for incapacity or death, the passing of a loved one, or the need to apply for Medicaid can be difficult discussions for many, but James’ sensitivity to each individual’s or family’s situation allows our clients to feel a sense of comfort. He then helps to develop the best strategy for each situation; our team-oriented approach allows us to ensure that our estate plans have been tailored to fit the client’s specific needs.
James keeps the “goal post” in sight and takes pride in coming closer to it each time he steps into the office.
2018 graduate of The Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University, J.D.
Executive Research Editor of the Family Court Review
2014 graduate of Hartwick College, B.A., Political Science
NYS
New York State Bar Association
Leadership Tech Valley, an initiative of the Capital Region Chamber, Class of 2021